Edition #2120: Parking, Planning & Prisoners
6 August 2026
Kicking off with a heated debate over Woodford Way Car Park's future, followed by contentious housing plans for Shilton and the sobering sentencing of Liberty Mitchell. Plus, concerning taxicab complaints, disability allowance cuts, and more.
Opening Theme
Car Park Fight Not Over
Major disagreement about redeveloping Woodford Way Car Park into housing; Conservatives push for ANPR survey before decision; Council votes against proposal but developer vows continued fight
God’s County Plea Over 100 Home Plan
Sixteen Home Plan Deemed Inappropriate
Plans for 16 new houses in Shilton spark controversy among locals due to infrastructure concerns and threat to village character. Residents worry about traffic issues compounded by nearby attractions. Developer argues homes would meet affordable housing needs.
Driver Who Killed Two Given Longer Sentance
Young driver’s jail sentence extended for killing two in high-speed crash on wrong side of road; Court of Appeal increases sentence by nearly three years due to reckless driving; Liberty Mitchell, 21, disqualified from driving and required to take extended test upon release
Rising Complaints Against Taxi Drivers
Rising complaints against taxi drivers in Oxfordshire; 139% increase from 2022 to 2025, reaching a record number of 549 complaints in Oxford city alone; Black cab association defends their drivers’ professionalism and adherence to regulations.
Monsterous Disability Cash Cuts
Oxfordshire council approvals monstrous cuts to disabled peoples’ living allowances and introduces new charges; Critics feared increased financial pressures, social isolation and personal safety impacts; Only 9% thought the plans were reasonable
Shocking Zebra Crossing
Faded zebra crossing on Witney’s Welch Way sparks safety concerns; Labor Councillor Andrew Cogges received numerous complaints about its poor condition with potholes and faded lines, putting pedestrians at risk; Witney resident David Willis called for immediate repairs after witnessing near accidents there.
Two Short Items
Police advise on summer home security; Holidaymakers urged to avoid social media updates. Oxfordshire declares drought, raising wildfire risks.
Editor’s Choice
Exceptionally dry July sets record lows across England and Wales; Southern England experiences driest month ever; Drought conditions persist due to heat waves and uneven rainfall distribution
Reflection with David Sarbots
GCSE and A-level students await results; Media scrutiny causes stress; Chief Inspector advocates balanced education but the focus remains on grades.
Deaths & Quiz
Death notices listed in Witney Gazette; Apollo is ancient Greek god of sun; Mercury closest planet to sun; Ernest Hemingway novel features ‘Sun’ title; British car model called Alpine revealed.
Alligators Find New Caribbean Home
American alligators relocated to Barbados Nature Park; Juveniles join resident parents Albert and Daisy as part of conservation project; Education, awareness, and international collaboration key aspects.
200 Mile Cycle for Estate Agents
Estate agents Parker’s undertake a 200-mile cycle challenge across counties to raise funds for Oxford’s Ronald McDonald House; Aiming to raise £10,000, they hope to support families facing challenging circumstances due to the cost of living crisis.
£500 Donation to Greatful Scout Group
A scout group received £500 donation. Funded by Councillor Priority Fund for troop facility developments in South Leigh. Donation aids hardship fund enabling more young people to join Witney Buttercross Scout Group.
Dog Fest at the Palace
Dog lovers can look forward to a royal day out at Denham Palace’s Dogfest this October 3rd and 4th, featuring canine celebrations like palace parades, dog shows, meet-ups, live music, and big dog walks. The event promises a memorable experience for both owners and their furry companions.
Carehome Resident Revisits RAF Roots
Care home resident revisits RAF Brize Norton; Pilot Phil recreates memories, brings joy; Magic Moments programme enriches life of veteran
£11M Investment for John Radcliffe Hospital
£11 million investment underway to transform John Radcliffe’s urgent & emergency care; New facilities aim to reduce delays & improve patient/staff experience; Expected completion phases from spring 2027.
Crash Victim Climbs Snowdon
Sam Baldwin, paralysed from a 2025 motorcycle accident, climbed Mount Snowdon after being told he’d never walk again; he completed the challenge in 9 hours raising funds for spinal research; despite his injuries, Baldwin expressed gratitude for regaining movement and dedicates his climb to others aspiring to take one step.
Noticeboard & Goodbye!
Weekend events announced; Theatre production ‘As You Like It’ and food festival; Oxford history tour and piano concert; Electric blanket testing reminders.